One of my first kindergarten, library lessons each year is on the parts of a book. We focus on front cover, back cover, spine, title, author, illustrator, title page and call number. While I was happy with my assessment tool, I was not thrilled with my lesson teaching the parts of a book because it wasn't very interactive. Then my family ordered pizza.... Yes, the pizza box changed everything!

I cut the box so that when it stood on the end it had a spine and was just a little smaller than 8 1/2 X 11.I covered the box with purple duck tape so the words on the box were not distracting. Using PowerPoint I created a front cover with an image of three bears, a banner for the title and text boxes for written by and illustrated by. I also created a back cover with a tree and a text box with a summary of Goldilocks & the Three Bears, On the final slide I created a spine, title card, author card, illustrator card and call number sticker. After cutting and laminating each of the pieces I attached them to the book base with Velcro.

After our regular read aloud time at the story corner, I reviewed front cover, back cover, spine and title with the students. We then discussed the roles of the author and illustrator and determined that the author's name is typically listed above or to the left of the illustrator's name. We discussed the call number for Everyone books and matched the letters to the author's last name. Finally, we discussed the summary on the back of the book. I then pulled out our "Build a Book" kit. Spread each of the pieces on the SMART Board ledge and asked a student to select the piece that would most likely be the back cover. We then worked to the spine and the call number. Finally. students chose the front cover and were able to place the title, author (because we did the call number first) and illustrator. This ended up being a great practice tool. I think I will create a few more kits so each time we practice it is with a different book.

Kristi Sutter

In 2009 I was given the chance to move into the best job in the world- Library Media Specialist! I work with students and teachers, coaching both in technology and sharing my passion for literature.